The Independent Media and Policy Initiative (IMPI) has called on the Federal Government to urgently boost funding for local arms production, warning that Nigeria’s security and self-reliance depend on empowering indigenous defence institutions such as the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON).
In a policy statement signed by its Chairman, Dr Omoniyi Akinsiju, IMPI said DICON, established in 1964 to drive military self-sufficiency, has been crippled by underfunding and bureaucracy.
The group noted that Nigeria’s locally produced OBJ-006 rifle still relies on imported components, despite the country’s capacity to manufacture complete systems if political will and sustained investment are provided.
IMPI contrasted Nigeria’s situation with countries like South Africa and Turkey, whose defence firms now supply global markets, and cited local success stories such as Proforce, which produces mine-resistant vehicles.
It criticised past reliance on costly foreign purchases, including the controversial $500 million deal for refurbished Puma helicopters, as evidence of a broken procurement system.
The think tank also highlighted the Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT) as a critical asset, noting that its engineers are already developing indigenous drone technology for military and civilian use.
According to IMPI, structured funding and partnerships with countries like Turkey and Israel would help bridge technical gaps and fast-track innovation.
Meanwhile, IMPI commended the Tinubu administration for improved transparency in defence procurement, citing greater public access to budgetary and spending data.
However, it urged the creation of an independent oversight body to ensure funds are used strictly for functional equipment, insisting that every foreign purchase must include strong after-sales support to guarantee value for money and better protection for Nigerian troops.